St. Petersburg • Clearwater 2008 - (Page 54) >Located along the fertile waters of the Intracoastal Waterway, Millennium Park is a major resting area for birds on their migration south. These feathered friends like the fact that park planners maintained and expanded many natural communities, including mangrove swamp, pine flatwoods and salt marsh. The park, a registered stop on the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s “Great Florida Birding Trail, also has a boardwalk and obser” vation tower. Watch the birds feed at sunset at Fort De Soto Park. 8. Explore Fort De Soto Park Still can’t decide what to do? This 1,136-acre park, comprised of five interconnected islands, has a little something for everybody. For starters, Fort De Soto has the largest public boat ramp in the county. Launch a powerboat to fish the Gulf of Mexico, or slip your kayak in the water and follow a well-marked paddle trail. Two fishing piers with full-service snack bars, as well as concessions that rent everything from sit-on-top kayaks to four-wheeled, surrey-style bikes, means you’ll never run out of things to do. Popular with cyclists and in-line skaters, a paved trail runs the length of the park. Off-road trails are a favorite haunt for birders and wildlife photographers. Water sport enthusiasts will find two well-marked swimming beaches to their liking. There is even an area set aside for kite surfing and board sailing. But Fort De Soto’s most popular attraction is the tree-covered family campground. People from all over the country come to pitch a tent and relax by the water. Make reservations early; this popular campground is booked well in advance. However, the park designates 10 percent of its inventory as walk-in sites, so those without a reservation have a chance for a short (one- to two-night) stay. For more information about the outdoors, see the Attractions & Activities section beginning on page 62, or visit www.FloridasBeach.com. : BIRD CHECK LIST Add these birds to your life list after a foray into the wilds: Snowy Egret – This small white heron is often confused with other members of the same family. Just remember, the snowy has a black bill and yellow beak. Its cousin, the great egret, has a yellow bill and black feet. Great Blue Heron – Known for its sometimes-cranky demeanor, the great blue heron is a common sight along the waterways of Pinellas County. These impressive birds can reach heights of 54 inches and have a wingspan of more than six feet. Look for these waders as they feed on everything from mice to fish. Brown Pelican – Unlike its cousin the white pelican, the brown feeds on schooling fish by making spectacular dives from high altitudes. The brown pelican, once dwindling in numbers, has made a strong comeback, thanks to strict conservation measures. 54 : Eig h t w a y s t o g et o u tsid e http://www.FloridasBeach.com
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